Running News Daily

Organizers cancel 2024 Providence Marathon

The Providence Marathon & Half Marathon, scheduled for May 5, has been canceled "due to unforeseen challenges, including the Washington Bridge closure," according to a Providence Marathon spokesperson.

Organizers informed Providence Mayor Brett Smiley's office of the cancellation Thursday morning. The marathon is sponsored by The Providence Journal.

“Despite our best efforts working with local leaders, the 2024 Providence Marathon & Half Marathon has been canceled due to unforeseen challenges, including the Washington Bridge closure," a marathon spokesperson said in a statement. "The safety and security of participants is our priority, and while we were unable to secure an adequate route this year, we hope to see everyone in 2025.”

Smiley spokesman Josh Estrella issued the following statement: "While the City is disappointed that there will not be a full or half marathon this year, we look forward to working with organizers in future years to develop a route that responds to the new challenges presented by the Washington Bridge closure to ensure a safe race for runners, neighbors and businesses."

How many ran the race last year?

The race drew nearly 6,000 runners last year and is a qualifier for the Boston Marathon. It raised more than $56,000 for the charity Make-A-Wish Massachusetts and Rhode Island, according to its website.

Runners who have already signed up for the race were notified of the cancellation via email and offered several options, including deferring their registration until next year, transferring their registration to another Ventures Endurance event or getting a refund.

Providence Marathon has been cancelled

This is from the organizers of the Providence Marathon which was set to go May 3.  "Dear Runners - Due to the concern surrounding the coronavirus, the CDC's recommendation of no events of 50-plus people for the next two months, and the government’s rolling mandate around no public gatherings, we've made the decision to cancel the Providence Marathon, Half Marathon, & 5K, originally scheduled for May 3, 2020.

"We understand how disappointing this is, and we still want to do the best we can for you. We're currently working hard with the venue and city officials to see if a fall postponement is possible, and expect a decision by early April, but we wanted to provide an update now so registered runners can adequately prepare.

"Please keep an eye on your inbox for upcoming email announcements regarding Providence Marathon updates. We'll also be sharing updates on social media. In the meantime, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at info@providencemarathon.com with any questions or concerns.

"On behalf of the Providence Marathon team, we thank you for your patience and understanding."